Unexpected Remodeling Problems

Insect and Water Damage

Good contractors spot signs of Insect and water damage during an initial walk-through, but these problems can still hide behind walls. If your contractor finds a problem, the first step is fixing current infestations or leaks. Then, depending on the amount of structural damage that has occurred, you might need to do some cosmetic work or replace part of the structure.

If insect or water damage is extensive enough, your contractor might have to remove a wall, which would require temporary bracing of the ceiling and floor. This might also mean rerunning electrical lines or ductwork, or reinstalling insulation. Each of these steps brings new costs.

Sometimes, however, most of the cost lies in simply finding a leak's source and repairing flooring torn up during the search. To cut these costs, you can pay a little beforehand to hire a service such as American Leak Detection (www.americanleakdetection.com). By sending a radio signal down to pipes below the floor or ground, technicians can pinpoint a leak without tearing up other areas of the room. Usually the charge for such a service is between $225 and $500.